IT’S been dubbed “Awful April” as increases in energy, water, broadband and council tax kick in.

Increasing numbers of people are finding it harder to cover basic living expenses.

Some people qualify for benefits payments but don’t realise it.

Our advisers can run a simple benefits check. Call our local AdviceLine on 0808 27 87 999 – it’s a free call.

You can access email and video advice via our website: https://www.citizensadvicetnmwd.org.uk and details of our office opening hours and drop-in availability are also there.

People of working age on low income may be eligible to claim, or those of State Pension age with little or no income, people who are sick or disabled and carers may still be eligible to claim so it is worth exploring the possibility.

Our last Advice Column focussed on getting help from the Local Authority with council tax and they may also be able to help with energy, water bills, food or other essentials through their Household Support Fund (welfare assistance).

If you have children and are on a low income or claiming certain benefits, you may qualify for free school meals, transport to school or help with the cost of uniform.

It is always worth shopping around for cheaper deals on broadband, energy or considering having a water meter installed.

It’s a case of trying to increase income and/or reduce outgoings.

Here at Citizens Advice Torridge, North, Mid and West Devon (CA TNMWD), we have specially trained energy advisers who can talk to you about ways of reducing energy costs and we can provide energy vouchers to those who qualify.

When things are tight, having a budget is even more important.

Tools and calculators | MoneyHelper (https://www.moneyhelper.org.uk/en/tools-and-calculators) has some helpful guidance and Debt and money - Citizens Advice

(https://citizensadvice.org.uk/debt-and-money/) also has lots of useful links and information.

When budgeting, “priority” debts i.e. rent/mortgage, Council Tax and energy bills have to come first as missing these payments can have the most serious consequences.

Then review debts such as credit cards or payday loans.

We have specially trained debt advisers who can help people manage debt and we are regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

It is important, however, if you start to fall behind on payments, to contact the organisation or company involved as soon as you can to try and see if you

can come to some kind of arrangement.

Unsurprisingly, demand for our services is increasing and accelerating as more and more people are impacted by rising costs.

If you would like to help us support those people, how about volunteering with us?

You don’t need to be any kind of professional specialist as we provide full training and ongoing support. You’ll not only be helping your local community, you will have an opportunity to learn new skills and make new friends.

Take the first step and contact: [email protected] , we would love to hear from you!

Rosanna Teale

CEO and Trustee Support Officer

Citizens Advice Torridge, North, Mid and West Devon